Gerry Adams says arrest followed 'sinister campaign'

4 May 2014 Last updated at 21:47 BST

Gerry Adams has said his arrest over the murder of Jean McConville followed a "malicious" and "sinister" campaign against him.

Speaking after his release from custody, Mr Adams protested his innocence, adding: "Those who authorised my arrest could have done it differently... they did not have to use pernicious, cohesive legislation to deal with a legacy issue."

He was freed on Sunday evening, after police conducted 33 taped interviews during four days of questioning.

A file on the case will be sent to the Public Prosecution Service. Mr Adams said he was aware he could still face charges.